President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated he intends to actively work towards police reform, rather than just criticising the institution.
The president made the statement during his visit to the Maldives Police Service (MPS) base in Iskandhar Koshi on July 5. In his remarks, the president said the government aims to ensure MPS is a professional institution which operates with honesty and integrity. He assured the commitment of the administration to work towards renewing public confidence and faith in the institution.
Speaking further, President Solih said contemporary reform will be brought to MPS with the advice and consultation of educated and experienced police officers in the institution. Noting education and training opportunities are much needed for police officers, the president pledged to increase such opportunities for MPS in order to raise the professional standard of the institution. He also acknowledged there are legislative changes which need to be brought in order to resolve the issues within the police institution, adding efforts are underway to bring about the required changes.
President Solih further stated he intends to actively work towards police reform and address the problems, rather than just criticising the institution. He reiterated his stance on police reform, expressing confidence the government will deliver on the pledge of police reform.
Highlighting the importance of speeding up the investigation process, especially in cases which involve crimes against women and children as well as other serious offences, the president said delayed investigation significantly affects public confidence. He added it is very important that information regarding the cases are conveyed to the public in a timely and efficient manner, noting it would eliminate the chances for rumors to spread through the media and unnecessarily raise public concerns.
In his remarks, the president also expressed gratitude to MPS for its tireless services in the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. The president noted MPS fulfilled its responsibility to the nation during the pandemic, and thanked all the officers involved in the COVID-19 response efforts and their families for the invaluable service at such a difficult time.